who we are
The Youth Justice Advocates are a group of organizations and community members who work on behalf of children in New Orleans’ schools, communities, and legal systems. Every day, we see children who are full of potential funneled into a justice system that only makes it harder for them to thrive.
We created the Youth Justice Advocates to offer a better way – one where we invest in supporting kids who are struggling instead of locking them up. Initially developed for the 2020 District Attorney and judicial races, we continue to use the Platform to hold our elected officials accountable and make our vision for a safer and healthier New Orleans a reality.
If you or your organization would like to sign on, please email nolayouthjusticeadvocates@gmail.com.
Our Three Pillars
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Hold children accountable in ways that are developmentally appropriate.
Allow children to enter adulthood without any barriers to their success.
Do not prosecute children in adult court and never incarcerate them in adult jails or prisons.
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Do not criminalize Black children for normal adolescent behaviors.
End the over-policing and surveillance of Black neighborhoods and schools.
Invest in resources that children and families need to thrive.
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Recognize and respond to childhood trauma as a public health issue, not a crime issue.
Use restorative justice in lieu of prosecution as often as possible.
Do not incarcerate children.
JOIN US
Email nolayouthjusticeadvocates@gmail.com to join our coalition
